Topic: Probity in Governance: Concept of public service; Philosophical basis of governance and probity; Information sharing and transparency in government, Right to Information, Codes of Ethics, Codes of Conduct, Citizen’s Charters, Work culture, Quality of service delivery, Utilization of public funds, challenges of corruption.
7. Today we find that in spite of various measures like prescribing codes of conduct, setting up vigilance cells/commissions, RTI, active media and strengthening of legal mechanisms, corrupt practices are not coming under control, Evaluate the effectiveness of these measures with justifications.(250 words)
Reference: Ethics by Lexicon Publications
Why this question:
The question is based on the theme of corruption.
Key demand of the question:
The answer must discuss why despite several measures corrupt practices in the country are still not coming under control. One must evaluate the effectiveness of such policy measures, institutions and other mechanisms and suggest measures that are required to ensure they function more effectively.
Directive:
Evaluate – When you are asked to evaluate, you have to pass a sound judgement about the truth of the given statement in the question or the topic based on evidences. You have to appraise the worth of the statement in question. There is scope for forming a personal opinion here.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Briefly explain the context of the question.
Body:
Measures against corruption are not entirely ineffective. Codes of conduct are partially effective because their breach leads to punishment. For this reason, officers fear getting into bad books of vigilance commissions. RTI mainly aims at transparency and making government information public; reducing corruption is incidental to RTI. Press investigations can unearth malpractices. But they often lack factual and Legal validity, and may be silenced. Tightening laws can help; but these get mired in procedures and in courts. Explain that many anti-corruption steps have been taken by government and then suggest what reforms can be made to make them perform better.
